Westminster
London
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The Palace of Westminster is better known as the Houses of Parliament and is one of London's best known monuments and also one of the city's finest Victorian buildings. It is best viewed from the south side of the river, where it has been painted by many renowned artists, including Monet and Turner.The Houses of Parliament were almost blown up with gunpowder by Guy Fawkes in 1605 and this is remembered every year on the 5th November with large organised fireworks displays and bonfires throughout the UK.
To watch the proceedings in either the House of Commons or Lords inside the building, simply join the queue for the public galleries. The public are allowed entry from 16:30 Monday to Thursday and from 10:00 on Fridays. Security checks are very thorough. Guided tours are available and it is also possible to climb the clock tower 'Big Ben' after the tour has ended, if special arrangements are made.
Big Ben
Parliament Square
London
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This enormous clock stands high above the Houses of Parliament and is named after the thirteen-ton main bell that strikes every hour. It is probably most impressive at night when the clock face is illuminated.